NEW YORK – In 2011, Major League Soccer’s Direct Kick television package will feature additional games and additional MLS Clubs for the same price as last year, $79.

This year’s television package will provide fans the opportunity to watch up to 221 MLS regular season matches and select playoff games — that is 61 more games than last year, an increase of 38 percent — during the 2011 season. MLS has collaborated with all four providers to offer a FREE PREVIEW on Saturday, March 19, during the opening weekend of the season known as MLS First Kick presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Direct Kick returns for the League’s 16th season and is available on four separate outlets. Starting March 19, satellite TV providers DIRECTV and DISH Network®, along with most major U.S. cable systems via digital cable provider iN DEMAND L.L.C. and digital media services provider, Avail-TVN, will once again each present regional telecasts of MLS action.

The residential price is just $79 on any of the four platforms. Commercial establishments can purchase the package for a flat rate of $100. The package will be available for purchase through each outlet between now and the end of the season.